Giants of the Saudi Pro League Al Hilal They are reportedly considering terminating the Brazilian superstar Neymar’s lucrative contract in January. This comes as the 32-year-old continues to battle persistent injury problems that have plagued his career since his highly publicized move to the club.
Neymar’s return to the field last month, after a year-long layoff due to a torn cruciate ligament, was met with enthusiasm. However, his comeback was short-lived as he suffered another setback in Al-Hilal’s recent Asian Champions League win against Al-Hilal Esteghlal. Despite Neymar’s attempts to play down the problem as a mere cramp, Brazilian reports suggest he could be sidelined for several weeks.
The Brazilian outlet UOL claims that Al-Hilal is considering an amicable termination of Neymar’s contract, which expires at the end of the season. The club is reportedly keen to ease the financial burden of his £130m-a-year salary and give coach Jorge Jesus more flexibility in the squad.
Neymar is currently one of eight foreign players over 21 in Al-Hilal’s squad, taking the team to its limit on overseas imports under Saudi Pro League regulations. With the other foreign players becoming an integral part of the squad in Neymar’s absence, the Brazilian’s future at the club remains uncertain.
Should the contract be terminated, Neymar could look for ways to return to his roots Santos in Brazil or reunite with his former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi And Luis Suarez at Inter Miami in the MLS. Despite Al-Hilal’s significant investment, Neymar’s impact was limited, with just seven appearances, one goal and three assists to his name.
Meanwhile, Al-Hilal continues to thrive without Neymar, having won the Saudi Pro League last season and currently top the table. The team also competes in the Asian Champions League and Kings Cup and has its sights set on the FIFA Club World Cup.
Fans and commentators alike are divided over Neymar’s future. Some suggest retirement, while others hope for a quick recovery and return to form. As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Al-Hilal’s next move regarding their star player.